Starting The New Year Right!

Good news!

Listed below are states that accept out-of-state medical marijuana authorizations! While the list is currently small and not every state allows you to obtain your prescription from their dispensaries, the list is expected to grow. For more info on each state’s regulations, click here.

In effect as of December 27, 2017, the New York State Department has accorded new regulations to improve the state’s Medical Marijuana Program for patients, practitioners and registered organizations. The new regulations provide:

Medical Marijuana in The News

Being an informed patient puts you in charge of your health and healing.

We encourage you to stay up-to-date with the rapidly changing policies concerning Medical Marijuana (from farming to distribution), especially with the new administration and its choices for its officers.

New Study Shows Marijuana Legalization is Lowering Alcohol Consumption. While Big Alcohol, Big Tobacco and Big Pharma are at the forefront of the anti-legalization of marijuana movement, more states are changing their position on cannabis with more than 64 percent of voters nationwide desiring the end of the plant’s prohibition. Marijuana reform has had a significant impact on alcohol sales with a 15-percent decline in some states, according to a new study conducted by researchers from the University of Connecticut and Georgia State University. Researchers sourced data from the Nielsen Retail Scanner database (which records sales data from 90 retail chains nationwide) for more accurate portrayals of actual usage rates.

“If people [are] still trying to decide between the two substances need a little help making a choice and weren’t already swayed by sales statistics, the 90,000 lives claimed annually by alcohol abuse may do the trick — especially when you consider that nobody ever has died as the direct result of cannabis consumption.” −Constellation CEO Rob Sands.Read MORE of this fascinating article…

Most doctors would prescribe medical marijuana to children with cancer, study shows. Doc Tommy is interviewed in this article. A study from Northwestern University surveyed 288 healthcare professionals and found that 92 percent would prescribe marijuana to a child with cancer. But those who were qualified to do so were more reluctant to prescribe a child with the alternative medicine for fear or risking their medical license. This is due to the lack of regulations on dosage for children and some hospitals’ policies that prohibit doctors from prescribing it . MORE…

It is important to stay up to date with Medical Marijuana news and contact your legislators(and get on their mailing lists) to:

Recap of 2017 Doc Tommy Happenings

Check out all of the attention that Doc Tommy’s been getting:

Doc Tommy and Jazz gave free, blood-pressure screenings at Copa Univision’s Soccer Tournament 2017 held on Randall’s Island on August 27th and 28th. Radio personality, Coco Cabrera, got a screening on live TV! What a wonderful way to encourage and support people in the community and to be an example of maintaining healthy habits for the younger generations! Click HERE for the video.

The latest article that Doc Tommy is quoted in is in The Daily Mail. This article leans towards disparaging the beneficial effects of Medical Marijuana, stating, “There is no conclusive evidence that marijuana helps with chronic pain and post-traumatic stress disorder, experts say.” Hmmm, just who are these experts? It’s worth reading if for nothing else but to see what Doc Tommy says.

Bet you didn’t know that Doc Tommy has skills to co-host a radio show known for chill grooves! Last month, Doc Tommy guest hosted on The Quiet Storm Radio Show with Lenny Green on WBLS.FM! If you’re not familiar with The Quite Storm, it was pioneered by the legendary, Vaughan Harper who created soothing vibes to wind down from the day for more than 3 decades. The Quiet Storm is now hosted by Lenny Green, who was voted Billboard Magazine’s 1999 Air Personality of the Year Award!

Listen to Doc Tommy’s Interview with Empire Now Radio

Doc Tommy’s Charm Lands a Video Showcase!

Here’s yet another reason to know that Doc Tommy is the right doctor!Weedmaps.com (“the most reliable online resource to find cannabis storefronts, doctors and deals”) approached Doc Tommy to be the subject of this amazing video!

Only a doctor whose professionalism, expertise, and great patient relationships will yield such really, good karma! (Click video for full screen or CLICK HERE for larger video view.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.

Latest Video Testimonial

Check out our newest, video testimonial! (Click video for full screen.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.If you would like to offer a testimonial, please share here.

Here’s your chance to be a proud supporter of Doc Tommy and his caring approach to your well-being and success with Medical Marijuana! Upload your video testimonialto our private and secure account and help other people get over the fright and plight of the stigma of MMJ! The more people who have success with MMJ, the more people who can benefit from MMJ!

Join our mailing list to be kept up to date.

Disclaimer: Please note that Doc Tommy News is presented as a resource for health tips, current events, and other interests to give patients an opportunity to expand awareness of developments concerning Medical Marijuana in the United States and abroad. The views and opinions expressed in Doc Tommy News are those of the individual authors/parties and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Office of Dr. Thomas G. O’Brien, II.

Be sure to check out our MMJ In The News section for importantinfo concerning your legal rights and access to Medical Marijuana in New York State.

And Check out ourNEW Office Special – Refer 2 Friends and Get A FREE Follow-up!

Holiday Hints

Staying safe and healthy throughout the holidays adds joy to the season! Here are a few tips to not only survive without the guilt and the pains, but to thrive through your holidays!

Thanksgiving

Coping with Thanksgiving – This is the time of the year that many people begin to feel overwhelmed… So what are you going to do about it? How do you avoid overeating? (And if you do indulge, how can you feel less guilty about it?) How can you deal with that relative whose company you just don’t enjoy? By John M. Grohol, Psy.D.

Anatomy of a Holiday Pig-Out – A typical Thanksgiving meal contains more than 3,000 calories. What does it do to your body? By Michelle Meyer

Medical Marijuana in The News

Being an informed patient puts you in charge of your health and healing.

We encourage you to stay up-to-date with the rapidly changing policies concerning Medical Marijuana (from farming to distribution), especially with the new administration and its choices for its officers.

New York State’s medical marijuana laws are some of the most stringent in the country. But on Saturday, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a piece of legislation that allows New Yorkers with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) to use marijuana to treat symptoms. While the optics of the new law mainly center around soldiers with PTSD, the shift could be life-changing for many more people in the state. MORE…

NYS MMJ Update: Since its launch nearly two years ago, New York State’s Medical Marijuana Program has certified 35,621 patients, and has 1,316 practitioners registered, said Jill Montag, a spokeswoman for the New York State Department of Health.

It is important to stay up to date with Medical Marijuana news and contact your legislators(and get on their mailing lists) to:

Recap of Doc Tommy Happenings

Check out all of the attention that Doc Tommy’s been getting:

Doc Tommy and Jazz gave free, blood-pressure screenings at Copa Univision’s Soccer Tournament 2017 held on Randall’s Island on August 27th and 28th. Radio personality, Coco Cabrera, got a screening on live TV! What a wonderful way to encourage and support people in the community and to be an example of maintaining healthy habits for the younger generations! Click HERE for the video.

The latest article that Doc Tommy is quoted in is in The Daily Mail. This article leans towards disparaging the beneficial effects of Medical Marijuana, stating, “There is no conclusive evidence that marijuana helps with chronic pain and post-traumatic stress disorder, experts say.” Hmmm, just who are these experts? It’s worth reading if for nothing else but to see what Doc Tommy says.

Bet you didn’t know that Doc Tommy has skills to co-host a radio show known for chill grooves! Last month, Doc Tommy guest hosted on The Quiet Storm Radio Show with Lenny Green on WBLS.FM! If you’re not familiar with The Quite Storm, it was pioneered by the legendary, Vaughan Harper who created soothing vibes to wind down from the day for more than 3 decades. The Quiet Storm is now hosted by Lenny Green, who was voted Billboard Magazine’s 1999 Air Personality of the Year Award!

Listen to Doc Tommy’s Interview with Empire Now Radio

Doc Tommy’s Charm Lands a Video Showcase!

Here’s yet another reason to know that Doc Tommy is the right doctor!Weedmaps.com (“the most reliable online resource to find cannabis storefronts, doctors and deals”) approached Doc Tommy to be the subject of an amazing video! Only a doctor whose professionalism, expertise, and great patient relationships will yield such really, good karma! (Click video for full screen.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.

Here’s your chance to be a proud supporter of Doc Tommy and his caring approach to your well-being and success with Medical Marijuana! Upload your video testimonialto our private and secure account and help other people get over the fright and plight of the stigma of MMJ! The more people who have success with MMJ, the more people who can benefit from MMJ!

Join our mailing list to be kept up to date.

Disclaimer: Please note that Doc Tommy News is presented as a resource for health tips, current events, and other interests to give patients an opportunity to expand awareness of developments concerning Medical Marijuana in the United States and abroad. The views and opinions expressed in Doc Tommy News are those of the individual authors/parties and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Office of Dr. Thomas G. O’Brien, II.

Be sure to check out our MMJ In The News section for importantinfo concerning your legal rights and access to Medical Marijuana in New York State.

And Check out ourNEW Office Special – Refer 2 Friends and Get A FREE Follow-up!

An Ounce of Prevention…

Get Ready for Cold & Flu Season

You may not want to think about it, but it’s time to prepare for the cold and flu season by getting your supplies in order. There’s nothing worse than getting caught by a cold and not having what you need already on hand. Here are a few tips to have what you need when you need it.

Prepare Your Medicine Cabinet. Discard expired medicines and make a list what you need to replace. You may want to include a digital thermometer, decongestants, cough medicines, antihistamines, fever and pain relief medicines, cough drops and throat lozenges, and nasal spray.

Stock Up on tissues, paper towels, hand soap, and hand sanitizer. Many sources recommend creating sanitizer stations with small bottles of hand sanitizers in each room. See our article on Hand Sanitizer Safety.

Clean Surfaces and have household cleaners on hand. With times ranges from seconds to a couple of days, viruses can survive on surfaces outside the human body! Disinfect heavily touched objects like doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and phones daily. Clean your humidifier. Clean household surfaces with disinfectants that contain “bleach, alcohol, pine oil, sodium hypochlorite, citric acid, hydrogen peroxide, or quaternary ammonium compounds” (Source: HealthGrades). To determine if a product meets specifications for disinfectants, look for an EPA registration number on the label, which may be in the fine print.

click image to enlarge

Stock Your Pantry. You know what “comfort food” means to you, but sugary and fatty foods are not the best for recuperating from a cold and flu! Make sure you have plenty of water, herbal tea, juice, soup (canned and instant). crackers, and easy to prepare and eat foods on hand.

Medical Marijuana in The News

Being an informed patient puts you in charge of your health and healing.

We encourage you to stay up-to-date with the rapidly changing policies concerning Medical Marijuana (from farming to distribution), especially with the new administration and its choices for its officers.

Marijuana busts increased last year, with nearly 600,000 people being arrested on a possession charge—a staggering number that costs taxpayers billions of dollars even as the vast majority of Americans support legalization of the drug. The statistic is not only telling for those targeted by the war on drugs, it’s also costly for taxpayers who footed the bill for about 587,700 people to make their way through the criminal justice system last year. MORE…

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), which governs drug testing in the Olympics and sets the standard for anti-doping guidelines in more than 600 sports leagues around the globe, released their updated list of banned substances for 2018. One entry underwent a major renovation from last year’s edition. Under the Cannabinoids section of the list, the WADA spells out that both natural and synthetic cannabinoids are strictly prohibited from being used in competition — except for CBD. MORE…

In 2013, after years of debate, Uruguay became the first country in the world to fully legalize recreational marijuana. The law was presented as a way to tackle growing drug trafficking and violence. Stringent regulations were put in place to make sure the government controls all aspects of production. Users have to register with authorities, a fingerprint is used for purchasing, and quotas are in place to prevent users from buying in excess. The United States announced they would no longer do business with companies that have links with the marijuana business. The move by US banks raises questions about the global legalization trend. US banks control vast amounts of capital and many countries are reliant on them. Some pharmacies in Uruguay were quick to say that, if their bank accounts were under threat of closure, they wouldn’t hesitate to stop selling cannabis. MORE…

Three measures aimed at banning cannabis businesses were soundly defeated in Tuesday’s Alaska elections. Voters in the city of Fairbanks, the Fairbanks North Star Borough, and the Kenai Peninsula Borough each rejected measures aimed at banning cannabis businesses. If the prohibitionists had succeeded, businesses would have been shuttered, taking jobs and livelihoods with them, and adult consumers would have been cut off from legal, regulated access. But just as they have in other legalization states like Washington, Colorado, and Oregon, voters continue to support the better approach. MORE…

Remember Charlo Greene, the reporter in Alaska who quit on air (and dropped an f-bomb) to focus on her medical marijuana business? You won’t believe what’s happening with her… or will you not be surprised?

“As the Washington Post explained, government and private critics have continued to voice concern in recent years that cannabis use at a young age could lead to addiction to the plant later on, and that increased accessibility could drive such a trend. According to data from Washington and other states, however, legalization hasn’t caused a measurable change in students’ cannabis use thus far—potentially some pretty good news for advocates of its medicinal and recreational legality.” MORE…

RESOURCE:NY Congressional Scorecard is where you can check on your legislators’ stances, bills sponsored, and votes on the subject of legalizing marijuana, et al.

It is important to stay up to date with Medical Marijuana news and contact your legislators(and get on their mailing lists) to:

Recap of Doc Tommy Happenings

Check out all of the attention that Doc Tommy’s been getting:

Doc Tommy and Jazz gave free, blood-pressure screenings at Copa Univision’s Soccer Tournament 2017 held on Randall’s Island on August 27th and 28th. Radio personality, Coco Cabrera, got a screening on live TV! What a wonderful way to encourage and support people in the community and to be an example of maintaining healthy habits for the younger generations! Click HERE for the video.

The latest article that Doc Tommy is quoted in is in The Daily Mail. This article leans towards disparaging the beneficial effects of Medical Marijuana, stating, “There is no conclusive evidence that marijuana helps with chronic pain and post-traumatic stress disorder, experts say.” Hmmm, just who are these experts? It’s worth reading if for nothing else but to see what Doc Tommy says.

Bet you didn’t know that Doc Tommy has skills to co-host a radio show known for chill grooves! Last month, Doc Tommy guest hosted on The Quiet Storm Radio Show with Lenny Green on WBLS.FM! If you’re not familiar with The Quite Storm, it was pioneered by the legendary, Vaughan Harper who created soothing vibes to wind down from the day for more than 3 decades. The Quiet Storm is now hosted by Lenny Green, who was voted Billboard Magazine’s 1999 Air Personality of the Year Award!

Listen to Doc Tommy’s Interview with Empire Now Radio

Doc Tommy’s Charm Lands a Video Showcase!

Here’s yet another reason to know that Doc Tommy is the right doctor!Weedmaps.com (“the most reliable online resource to find cannabis storefronts, doctors and deals”) approached Doc Tommy to be the subject of this amazing video!

Only a doctor whose professionalism, expertise, and great patient relationships will yield such really, good karma! (Click video for full screen or CLICK HERE for larger video view.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.

Latest Video Testimonial

Check out our newest, video testimonial! (Click video for full screen.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.If you would like to offer a testimonial, please share here.

Here’s your chance to be a proud supporter of Doc Tommy and his caring approach to your well-being and success with Medical Marijuana! Upload your video testimonialto our private and secure account and help other people get over the fright and plight of the stigma of MMJ! The more people who have success with MMJ, the more people who can benefit from MMJ!

Join our mailing list to be kept up to date.

Disclaimer: Please note that Doc Tommy News is presented as a resource for health tips, current events, and other interests to give patients an opportunity to expand awareness of developments concerning Medical Marijuana in the United States and abroad. The views and opinions expressed in Doc Tommy News are those of the individual authors/parties and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Office of Dr. Thomas G. O’Brien, II.

And Check out ourNEW Office Special – Refer 2 Friends and Get A FREE Follow-up!

Doc Tommy In The News

Doc Tommy and Jazz gave free, blood-pressure screenings at Copa Univision’s Soccer Tournament 2017 held on Randall’s Island on August 27th and 28th. Radio personality, Coco Cabrera, got a screening on live TV! What a wonderful way to encourage and support people in the community and to be an example of maintaining healthy habits for the younger generations! (Please wait while video loads.)

The latest article that Doc Tommy is quoted in is in The Daily Mail. This article leans towards disparaging the beneficial effects of Medical Marijuana, stating, “There is no conclusive evidence that marijuana helps with chronic pain and post-traumatic stress disorder, experts say.” Hmmm, just who are these experts? It’s worth reading if for nothing else but to see what Doc Tommy says.

Medical Marijuana in The News

Being an informed patient puts you in charge of your health and healing.

We encourage you to stay up-to-date with the rapidly changing policies concerning Medical Marijuana (from farming to distribution), especially with the new administration and its choices for its officers.

IMPORTANT:

The Marijuana Justice Act of 2017

Senator Corey Booker (D-NJ) has introduced comprehensive marijuana reform legislation, the Marijuana Justice Act of 2017 (read and keep track of the bill’s progress here) which aims to end federal prohibition of cannabis and examines how prohibition could affect both government and individuals if it continues.

Why is this bill important to you? The ongoing enforcement of cannabis prohibition financially burdens taxpayers, encroaches upon civil liberties, engenders disrespect for the law, impedes legitimate scientific research into the plant’s medicinal properties… Read more.

The bill would (1) remove marijuana from the US Controlled Substances Act, thereby ending the federal criminalization of cannabis; (2) incentivize states to mitigate existing and ongoing disparities in state-level marijuana arrests; (3) expunge federal convictions specific to marijuana possession; (4) allow individuals currently serving time in federal prison for marijuana-related violations to petition the court for re-sentencing; (5) and create a community reinvestment fund to invest in communities most impacted by the failed War on Drugs.

For more information on New York State’s Marijuana laws and penalties, news, and legislation issues, peruse NORML’s website where you can also find resources for other states, a variety of information, and lawyers.

The Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is preparing a formal response to the World Health Organization (overseen by The United Nations) concerning how 17 substances including cannabidiol (CBD) should be designated under the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances. The FDA announced in the FederalRegister.gov that it is soliciting public comments with regard to the therapeutic utility and abuse liability of various controlled substances, including cannabidiol (CBD).

There are 2 ways to participate: online via the Federal eRulemaking Portal or by written submission. BE ADVISED: “If you want to submit a comment with confidential information that you do not wish to be made available to the public, submit the comment as a written/paper submission and in the manner detailed (see “Written/Paper Submissions” and “Instructions”).”

Its therapeutic properties and lack of abuse potential, despite the safety trials which have determined the substance to be non-toxic and well-tolerated in human subjects

Seventeen states explicitly recognizing by state-law that CBD as a therapeutic agent

The head of the US National Institute on Drug Abuse publically acknowledging that CBD is ‘a safe drug with no addictive effects.’” (Source: NORML)

RESOURCE:NY Congressional Scorecard is where you can check on your legislators’ stances, bills sponsored, and votes on the subject of legalizing marijuana, et al.

The World’s First Cannabis Genetic Test Can Tell You How Your Body Will React to Marijuana. What if a test could tell you that you may have a negative reaction to marijuana before you tried it? The world’s first cannabis genetic test will be available within the next month, offered by Canadian company, AnantLife, which specializes in genetic testing and counseling for a variety of medical conditions. The test can identify genetic “markers” in your DNA that could indicate a higher probability toward adverse reactions from cannabis use. Best part is that you can easily perform this test in your own home!

Anantlife’s genetic testing laboratory is accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and is certified by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), the gold standards of medical testing certifications. Any test with these two endorsements has been cleared by medical professionals, and any data collected by these certified tests are considered legit by government, university, and hospital researchers in both the US and Canada.

New York City Taxi Driver Wins Medical Marijuana Discrimination Case. Another victory for medical marijuana patients! In July, the Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) revoked a taxi driver’s TLC Driver License, which every NYC taxi driver is required to have, because he tested positive for marijuana. New York City’s Office of Administrative Trials & Hearings (“OATH”) has issued a report and recommendation to reverse an adverse action taken by the TLC against a lawful medical marijuana user and has ruled that a taxi driver cannot have his license revoked for using medical cannabis. The New York Compassionate Care Act states that certified patients cannot be subject to penalties or denied any rights or privileges solely due to their medical cannabis use because (1) patient certification is analogous to a prescription and cannot be considered illegal drug use, and (2) certified patients are deemed to have a disability under the New York State Human Rights Law.

It is important to stay up to date with Medical Marijuana news and contact your legislators(and get on their mailing lists) to:

Let’s get it straight…

Recap of Doc Tommy Happenings

Check out all of the attention that Doc Tommy’s been getting:

Bet you didn’t know that Doc Tommy has skills to co-host a radio show known for chill grooves! Last month, Doc Tommy guest hosted on The Quiet Storm Radio Show with Lenny Green on WBLS.FM! If you’re not familiar with The Quite Storm, it was pioneered by the legendary, Vaughan Harper who created soothing vibes to wind down from the day for more than 3 decades. The Quiet Storm is now hosted by Lenny Green, who was voted Billboard Magazine’s 1999 Air Personality of the Year Award!

Listen to Doc Tommy’s Interview with Empire Now Radio

Doc Tommy’s Charm Lands a Video Showcase!

Here’s yet another reason to know that Doc Tommy is the right doctor!Weedmaps.com (“the most reliable online resource to find cannabis storefronts, doctors and deals”) approached Doc Tommy to be the subject of this amazing video!

Only a doctor whose professionalism, expertise, and great patient relationships will yield such really, good karma! (Click video for full screen or CLICK HERE for larger video view.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.

Latest Video Testimonial

Check out our newest, video testimonial! (Click video for full screen.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.If you would like to offer a testimonial, please share here.

Here’s your chance to be a proud supporter of Doc Tommy and his caring approach to your well-being and success with Medical Marijuana! Upload your video testimonialto our private and secure account and help other people get over the fright and plight of the stigma of MMJ! The more people who have success with MMJ, the more people who can benefit from MMJ!

Join our mailing list to be kept up to date.

Disclaimer: Please note that Doc Tommy News is presented as a resource for health tips, current events, and other interests to give patients an opportunity to expand awareness of developments concerning Medical Marijuana in the United States and abroad. The views and opinions expressed in Doc Tommy News are those of the individual authors/parties and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Office of Dr. Thomas G. O’Brien, II.

Caring for Bug Bites

‘Tis the season for enjoying the outdoors and having meals outside! However, all too often, you get eaten, too! Here is a list of useful links to prevent and soothe the irritation of bug bites and keep yourself off of the menu!

We like this article because while the FDA has not approved essential oil products as drugs because of a lack of clinical trials to meet the agency’s standard for safety or effectiveness, this article provides information from accredited agencies such as the Center for Disease Control.

The FDA requires companies to include the following disclosure regarding the therapeutic benefits of essential oils: “These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.”

We also like that this article provides links to its sources for you to read the information for yourself to make informed choices.

One of our patients recommends Amazon.com as a good place to purchase essential oils and offers these tips:

Read reviews of the products and their sellers. Sellers sand products with favorable reviews have them for good reasons. It’s a good idea to check a few unfavorable reviews to get a better understanding of what customers liked and disliked.

Read all of the product descriptions carefully to avoid disappointment.

Choose oils that are all-natural, unfiltered and undiluted; preferably steam-distilled; and free from toxins, additives or preservatives.

You can find good deals on larger-sized bottles. Search for the type of oil you desire in 4oz. bottles. For example, search for “Lavender Essential Oil 4oz.”

Try to purchase all of your desired oils from the same seller to receive free shipping deals.

Gear

Mosquito Netting is important because it prevents insect bites and comes in a variety of colors, styles, and sizes for just about every function — from portable tents to king-sized beds to baby carriages and strollers! Many mosquito nets are pre-treated with insecticide for extra protection. This guide from SafariQuip gives very detailed information to help you choose netting that is right for your location as well as your needs. You will also find information on mosquito-repellent clothing and other products. Another good read is the Mosquito Net Buying Guide which even gives you tips on how to get the best deals on eBay.

Wearables. You can find everything from insect repellent clothing that repels fleas and ticks (and for pets, too!) to jewelry that you can easily put on and take off. Some of the jewelry is simple, others are quite fashionable and ornate! You can find wearables that are chemically-treated and which use all-natural ingredients to repel bugs.

Now for the not-so-great news…

An interesting study described in Science Magazine tells that while citronella candles are great for ambiance, they have little to no effect on repelling insects! Scientists conducted a study using a human as bait with one of five sprays, five wearable devices, or a citronella candle. Researchers found that “most did not live up to the promises on their labels. At a distance of 1 meter, DEET and oil of lemon eucalyptus sprays reduced mosquito attraction by 60%.” Check out the full details in the Journal of Insect Science.

Recap of Doc Tommy Happenings

Check out all of the attention that Doc Tommy’s been getting:

Bet you didn’t know that Doc Tommy has skills to co-host a radio show known for chill grooves! Last month, Doc Tommy guest hosted on The Quiet Storm Radio Show with Lenny Green on WBLS.FM! If you’re not familiar with The Quite Storm, it was pioneered by the legendary, Vaughan Harper who created soothing vibes to wind down from the day for more than 3 decades. The Quiet Storm is now hosted by Lenny Green, who was voted Billboard Magazine’s 1999 Air Personality of the Year Award!

Listen to Doc Tommy’s Interview with Empire Now Radio

Doc Tommy’s Charm Lands a Video Showcase!

Here’s yet another reason to know that Doc Tommy is the right doctor!Weedmaps.com (“the most reliable online resource to find cannabis storefronts, doctors and deals”) approached Doc Tommy to be the subject of this amazing video!

Only a doctor whose professionalism, expertise, and great patient relationships will yield such really, good karma! (Click video for full screen or CLICK HERE for larger video view.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.

Latest Video Testimonial

Check out our newest, video testimonial! (Click video for full screen.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.If you would like to offer a testimonial, please share here.

Here’s your chance to be a proud supporter of Doc Tommy and his caring approach to your well-being and success with Medical Marijuana! Upload your video testimonialto our private and secure account and help other people get over the fright and plight of the stigma of MMJ! The more people who have success with MMJ, the more people who can benefit from MMJ!

Medical Marijuana in The News

Being an informed patient puts you in charge of your health and healing.

We encourage you to stay up-to-date with the rapidly changing policies concerning Medical Marijuana (from farming to distribution), especially with the new administration and its choices for its officers.

N.Y. Health Department improves medical marijuana program amid growing demand. “Effective immediately, doctors, nurse practitioners and physician assistants can register online and certify patients the same day. Officials say that will help streamline and simplify the registration process for medical professionals. The state’s medical marijuana program has more than 22,000 patients, and that number is on the rise. In late March, the department added chronic pain as a qualifying condition and since then an additional 7,504 patients have become certified.”

US Attorney GeneralJeff Sessions Praises Failed D.A.R.E. Program. “There’s just one problem with the AG’s assertion, he was dead wrong on the facts… Far from effective, D.A.R.E. was an abject failure, at least, according to the feds. In 2003, the GAO (a.k.a. the U.S. Government Accountability Office) disclosed the program made absolutely no difference.”

Canadian Dollars Are Funding Global Cannabis Expansion. “Now in the 21st-century, marijuana is finally getting its due as an incredible medicine. To that end, Canada is building upon its reputation as a pot-loving country by funding the international cannabis industry.”

Office Policy Updates

Current Office Special

Refer A Friend and Receive a $75 Follow-Up Visit

Now’s your chance to receive a $25 credit for each person you refer who becomes an active patient! Share your success with people who may benefit from Medical Marijuana treatment with Doc Tommy’s expertise and comforting care and receive “karma credits!” See Office Policies for more info.

Join our mailing list to be kept up to date.

Disclaimer: Please note that Doc Tommy News is presented as a resource for health tips, current events, and other interests to give patients an opportunity to expand awareness of developments concerning Medical Marijuana in the United States and abroad. The views and opinions expressed in Doc Tommy News are those of the individual authors/parties and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Office of Dr. Thomas G. O’Brien, II.

Be sure to check out our MMJ In The News section for importantinfo concerning your legal rights and access to Medical Marijuana in New York State.

And Check out our Current Office Special!

Catching Up With Doc Tommy

Check out all of the attention that Doc Tommy’s been getting:

Bet you didn’t know that Doc Tommy has skills to co-host a radio show known for chill grooves! Last month, Doc Tommy guest hosted on The Quiet Storm Radio Show with Lenny Green on WBLS.FM! If you’re not familiar with The Quite Storm, it was pioneered by the legendary, Vaughan Harper who created soothing vibes to wind down from the day for more than 3 decades. The Quiet Storm is now hosted by Lenny Green, who was voted Billboard Magazine’s 1999 Air Personality of the Year Award!

Listen to Doc Tommy’s Interview with Empire Now Radio

Doc Tommy’s Charm Lands a Video Showcase!

Here’s yet another reason to know that Doc Tommy is the right doctor!Weedmaps.com (“the most reliable online resource to find cannabis storefronts, doctors and deals”) approached Doc Tommy to be the subject of this amazing video!

Only a doctor whose professionalism, expertise, and great patient relationships will yield such really, good karma! (Click video for full screen or CLICK HERE for larger video view.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.

New Video Testimonial

Check out our newest, video testimonial! (Click video for full screen.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.If you would like to offer a testimonial, please share here.

Here’s your chance to be a proud supporter of Doc Tommy and his caring approach to your well-being and success with Medical Marijuana! Upload your video testimonialto our private and secure account and help other people get over the fright and plight of the stigma of MMJ! The more people who have success with MMJ, the more people who can benefit from MMJ!

The Importance of Foot Care

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Aside from the fact that sandal season is right around the corner, now is a good time to take a look at your foot care practices. Caring for your feet is paramount because your entire body rests on them! Did you know that your feet have more than 50 bones (which is approximately one-fourth of all the bones in your body), more than 60 joints and 200 muscles, tendons, and ligaments? That’s quite a bit contained in such small packages! Check out the reflexology chart that shows the areas of the feet that correspond to ALL parts of your body!

Foot health can be an indicator of your overall health. For example, joint stiffness could mean arthritis and swelling might indicate kidney disease, heart disease, or high blood pressure. Improper foot care can lead to all kinds of pain and discomforts (and “dis-eases”) in your body that can torture you for a lifetime. Far too many people don’t think about their feet until there is a problem. But a little foot care can go a long way! Here are some tips for healthy, happy feet. Gentlemen, this is for you, too!

1) Hygiene

Pedicures. Of course, a salon pedicure is ideal (invest in your own set of instruments for sanitary purposes), but you can take care of your feet at home.

Exfoliate. There are so many, wonderful ways to attend to rough, dry skin! Use a pumice stone (or make your own by slicing a raw potato in half, then dip it in sea salt) and similar tools to slough away uncomfortable and unsightly skin. There are mild, chemical treatments to rid your feet of tough callouses (use with caution) and all kinds of gadgets that make quick work of the task.

Wash and moisturize your feet daily. Just because you weren’t walking around barefoot doesn’t mean that your feet are clean. Natural shedding of the skin, sweat residue, sock lint, or shoe debris contribute not only to odor, but to bacteria and fungi. Be certain to wash and dry completely between toes, especially before applying a moisturizer. Keeping your feet moisturized contributes to better circulation, more mobility in the feet (which yields better balance and spine health), and the prevention of bacteria and fungal growth.

Interesting Note: Merits of Oiling the Body — “Ayurveda encourages appropriate oiling of the body parts. This needs to be practiced on an everyday basis. The main reason behind this is that applying and massaging oil onto the body is believed to be a good manner of rendering nourishing and suppleness to both the muscles and the tissues of the body… There are three particular body parts that need to be oiled every single day. These are the scalp, ears, and soles of the feet.” Read more

Keep your toenails trimmed and filed. Using a toenail clippers, cut toenails right after you bathe and while they are soft. Cut them straight across, then carefully file to round out the edges. Do not cut your cuticles; use a cuticle remover to gently push overgrown cuticles back into place.

Wear shoes that fit and that are the right size. Vanity aside, the size of a shoe often varies on manufacturer and design. Our feet also get bigger and wider with time. So, don’t be committed to wearing a size 7 if the comfortable fit of the shoe is a size 10. Wearing improperly-fitting shoes leads to a plethora of conditions including curled “hammer toes,” bunions, painful plantar fasciitis, fungal infections that cause nails to become thick, brittle and discolored, and knee and back pain among other ills.

Choose shoes that have proper support, which means that the shoe will bend only at the toes (this, of course, excludes running shoes and shoes designed for specific functions).

Choose shoes for your activity level. In other words, if you’re going to be walking around all day, stilettos are not a good choice. Ladies, choose a lower heel (1.5 inches or lower) for walking around and prolonged wear. Avoid wearing flip-flops around town as they are designed to be worn from the shower to the bedroom and not for the whole day. (Flip-flop related injuries are a major reason for increased podiatry visits during the summer!) Impractical foot wear is occasionally OK if you’re not going to spend too much time wearing them or if you’re not going to be very active.

3) Massage and Exercise. We know the benefits of massage and exercise for total well-being. But just in case you didn’t know, foot massage benefits can include improved sex life, reduction in depression and anxiety, lowered blood pressure, alleviation of symptoms of PMS and menopause, and so much more! So, let’s get straight to the goodies:

Medical Marijuana in The News

Being an informed patient puts you in charge of your health and healing.

We encourage you to stay up-to-date with the rapidly changing policies concerning Medical Marijuana (from farming to distribution), especially with the new administration and its choices for its officers.

3,000+ Patients Certified Since Chronic Pain Added To New York Medical Marijuana Program

“The New York State Department of Health announced several milestones in the state’s Medical Marijuana program, including the certification of more than 3,350 patients since the addition of chronic pain as a qualifying condition in late March, the registration of nearly 1,000 practitioners, and the publication of a list of registered practitioners who have consented to be listed publicly…” Read more…

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New York State To Approve PTSD To Medical Marijuana Program?

In late April, The New York State Assembly unanimously approved adding PTSD to the list of treatable conditions for MMJ. The bill is now in the State Senate awaiting approval.

Whoopi Goldberg owns a company called Whoopi & Maya that specializes in cannabis-infused products that specifically target severe menstrual cramps. “It’s not some weird roundabout way for people to get stoned,” Goldberg said.

New York: State’s Medical Marijuana Licensing Panel Found to Have Little Expertise

When New York State approved the use of medical marijuana in 2014, a panel of “experts” said to have deep backgrounds in several fields vetted the applicants to dispense the drug. NYS has only 5 companies that were chosen by this panel to receive exclusive statewide medical marijuana licenses. A September 2015 Freedom of Information request by The New York Times, seeking the names of the panel’s members, was delayed nine times, as the department said that it did not “maintain records” or contact information for the panel. Finally, on May 1, 2017, the department disclosed the names of the panel’s 17 evaluators: “all state employees, most with little or no prior professional experience in medical marijuana.” Read The New York Times full article. Items of note:

The limited number of companies allowed to dispense MMJ that were chosen by this panel creates difficulties in patient access, including location and expense.

A law suit has been brought to prevent the granting of licenses to additional MMJ companies. “’Flooding the supply market when there is insufficient patient demand will undermine the viability of the entire program,’ the lawsuit says, adding that more dispensaries could also make it difficult for companies to raise more capital.”

California: Wine Industry Finds a Companion in a Competitor: Marijuana

With more states legalizing recreational marijuana, the liquor industry is gaining concern for its profit margins, particularly as beer sales have declined. However, many in the the wine industry believe that marijuana and wine can coexist in harmony and see marijuana as a complement to wine rather than a competitor. It appears that a sense of connoisseurship is what brings together lovers of cannabis, wine, craft beer, and artisanal spirits. Ergo, the first Wine & Weed Symposium (a wine industry initiative) will explore possible business opportunities in California, which legalized recreational marijuana use in November. Read more…

Office Policy Updates

Current Office Special

Refer A Friend and Receive a $75 Follow-Up Visit

Now’s your chance to receive a $25 credit for each person you refer who becomes an active patient! Share your success with people who may benefit from Medical Marijuana treatment with Doc Tommy’s expertise and comforting care and receive “karma credits!” See Office Policies for more info.

Join our mailing list to be kept up to date.

Disclaimer: Please note that Doc Tommy News is presented as a resource for health tips, current events, and other interests to give patients an opportunity to expand awareness of developments concerning Medical Marijuana in the United States and abroad. The views and opinions expressed in Doc Tommy News are those of the individual authors/parties and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Office of Dr. Thomas G. O’Brien, II.

Be sure to check out our MMJ In The News section for importantinfo concerning your legal rights and access to Medical Marijuana in New York State.

And Check out our Current Office Special!

Preparing For Warmer Weather

Spring cleaning is a wise tradition to clear away the stagnation of months of closed windows and doors. However, it is equally important to cleanse and prep your body for the warmer weather with inner and outer treatments to benefit skin, metabolism, and even improve dealing with the allergy season! Here are a few, easy things that you can do to spring into action!

1) Hydrate. You hear it all of the time, but seriously, not enough can be said on the benefits of proper hydration. Water can help you stay slim; boost your metabolism and energy; imrpove skin conditions and your overall appearance; and keep you healthy. More info: 34 Proven Ways Water Makes You Awesome.

2) “Lighten up” your diet. Limit your intake of saturated fats (fatty meats, bacon, sausage) and eat red meat no more than 2 times a week. Increase servings of fish and seafood up to three times a week and, of course, eat your veggies! More info: Spring Clean Your Diet With These 10 Simple Tips

3) Get moving! Yea, yea, we know… Just do it… However, exercise is always easier with a buddy. What a great age to live in where we have just about everything we can want at our fingertips! Meetup.com is a great place to find activity groups with people who share not only your fitness goals and interests, but for just about anything that you can think of, you will find some folks who are into it, too! Search for age groups, locations, specific activities, and more. Have fun!

4) Skin Care. Dealing with winter often dries skin and leaves it less than vibrant and healthy looking. The basics of preparing your skin for spring are exfoliation (gentle removal of dead skin cells), cleansing (including using a toner), and moisturizing. More info including do-it-yourself, natural recipes: 7 Ways To Prepare Your Skin For Spring

Cold, Flu, or Allergy?

The discomforts of sniffles, sneezing, and a sore throat can be confusing to know whether you’ve got a cold, flu, or allergies. Because they share so many symptoms, it can be hard to tell them apart. While cold, flu, and allergies all affect your respiratory system, making it hard to breathe, each has its own set of symptoms that set it apart from the others. Understanding the differences can greatly assist you in choosing the best treatment.

Allergies are your body’s immune system reacting to a trigger (“allergen”) that your body is sensitive to – such as dander and pollen. Respiratory tissues may swell and your nose may become stuffed up or runny and may be accompanied by watery, itchy, eyes. Allergies can last approximately 6 weeks during the pollen season (in spring, summer, and fall). These symptoms are not usually experienced with colds and flu.

Caused by viruses, both colds and flu can lead to a sore throat; congestion; a runny, stuffy nose; and coughing. The flu, however, can also cause headache, fatigue, general aches and pain, and a high fever that lasts for 3-4 days. Colds and flu do not usually last longer than 2 weeks and most people recover without medical care. (However, if symptoms last beyond 10 days or aren’t relieved by over-the-counter medicines, check with a health care provider.)

The chart below (from the National Institute of Health) offers an overview of symptoms, treatments, and more.

Medical Marijuana in The News

Being an informed patient puts you in charge of your health and healing.

We encourage you to stay up-to-date with the rapidly changing policies concerning Medical Marijuana (from farming to distribution), especially with the new administration and its choices for its officers.

ATTENTION: WhiteHouse.gov Petition to Keep The Rights of States To Govern Marijuana Laws

“On February 23, Press Secretary Sean Spicer indicated the Department of Justice might begin “greater enforcement” of federal law in states that have legalized marijuana. But during the campaign President Trump repeatedly pledged that if elected, the federal government would respect the rights of states to enact their own cannabis laws. That is a wise policy supported by a growing super-majority of voters. They know that state marijuana legalization laws hurt the cartels, fund our schools and roads, and protect public health and safety. Studies in the Journal of the American Medical Association and others have shown that states with legal and accessible medical and recreational marijuana see a significant reduction in opioid death rates…”

Read more and SIGN THE PETITION before March 25th to (1) remain independent and make your voice heard, and (2) ensure that this petition gets a response from the White House!

It is important to stay up to date with Medical Marijuana news and contact your legislators(and get on their mailing lists) to:

Review

Doc Tommy’s Video Testimonials

Check it out! Here’s your chance to join Jess in being a proud supporter of Doc Tommy and his caring approach to your well-being and success with Medical Marijuana! Upload your video testimonialto our private and secure account and help other people get over the fright and plight of the stigma of MMJ! The more people who have success with MMJ, the more people who can benefit from MMJ! (Click video for full screen.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.

Doc Tommy’s Charm Lands a Video Showcase!

Here’s yet another reason to know that Doc Tommy is the right doctor!Weedmaps.com (“the most reliable online resource to find cannabis storefronts, doctors and deals”) approached Doc Tommy to be the subject of this amazing video!

Only a doctor whose professionalism, expertise, and great patient relationships will yield such really, good karma! (Click video for full screen or CLICK HERE for larger video view.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.

Office Policy Updates

Current Office Special

Refer A Friend and Receive a $75 Follow-Up Visit

Now’s your chance to receive a $25 credit for each person you refer who becomes an active patient! Share your success with people who may benefit from Medical Marijuana treatment with Doc Tommy’s expertise and comforting care and receive “karma credits!” See Office Policies for more info.

Join our mailing list to be kept up to date.

Disclaimer: Please note that Doc Tommy News is presented as a resource for health tips, current events, and other interests to give patients an opportunity to expand awareness of developments concerning Medical Marijuana in the United States and abroad. The views and opinions expressed in Doc Tommy News are those of the individual authors/parties and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Office of Dr. Thomas G. O’Brien, II.

Be sure to check out our MMJ In The News section for importantinfo concerning your legal rights and access to Medical Marijuana in New York State.

And Check out our Current Office Special!

Doc Tommy’s Video Testimonials

Check it out! Here’s your chance to join Jess in being a proud supporter of Doc Tommy and his caring approach to your well-being and success with Medical Marijuana! Upload your video testimonialto our private and secure account and help other people get over the fright and plight of the stigma of MMJ! The more people who have success with MMJ, the more people who can benefit from MMJ! (Click video for full screen.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.

Something New & Goodies To Review

A Comfort Tip for Colds, Flu & Congestion: Humidifiers

Do you remember when humidifiers were big, bulky, noisy, drippy, and left a film on furniture? We all know how uncomfortable it can be to breathe dry, heated air. And stuffy homes don’t always smell so sweet.

Ahhhh, technology and innovation to the rescue! Now, you can inexpensively find relief with clean-operating, combination humidifier-aromatherapy atomizer-ionizer units that can be set to run for specific, time intervals and even shut themselves off automatically! And how about a funky, light show for extra ambiance and relaxation!

Humidifiers emit water vapor to increase the level of humidity in a space. When used correctly, they can help alleviate weather symptoms including chapped lips, dry skin, nose bleeds, and can even help with snoring! The benefits of sleeping with a humidifier can alleviate dry, scratchy throats and nasal congestion. Humidifiers lubricate nasal passages and can speed healing from colds and flu. (Note: Be certain to clean humidifiers regularly and properly to avoid creating a breeding ground of bacteria and mold.)

Ionizers send electrically charged molecules (ions) into the air which attract dust and pollutants (causing them to become too heavy to stay airborne), freshening it while making it safer to breathe. Other benefits of ionized air include improved respiration, sleep, mental state, and more (see more health benefits and possible, adverse effects of ionizers).

Today’s units are small, easy to clean, and many are specifically designed to be used with essential oils for extra, healing benefits. AND there are even travel units for your car! Here are 2 units that a few of our patients have tried and recommend:

Review

Now that winter is in full swing, we invite you to review some of our past articles to stay healthy!

Hand Sanitizer and Antibacterial Soap Considerations

As cold and flu season is upon us, you may want to reconsider reaching for the hand sanitizer in your briefcase or bag. Some hand sanitizers contain alcohol compounds ethanol (or ethyl alcohol), isopropyl alcohol and benzalkonium chloride. High concentration exposure to these substances can cause irritation to eyes and skin and may even harm fetuses. Read article

Paper Tissue & Toilet Paper Safety & Health

Tis the season for the sniffles and aren’t we lucky to have disposable tissues and toilet paper? However, there are many concerns regarding the safety of these products… Download this guide from the Natural Resources Defense Council (nrdc.org) to find products that use environmentally safe processing practices and see if your favorite brands are on the list. Read article

Doc Tommy’s Charm Lands a Video Showcase!

Here’s yet another reason to know that Doc Tommy is the right doctor!Weedmaps.com (“the most reliable online resource to find cannabis storefronts, doctors and deals”) approached Doc Tommy to be the subject of this amazing video!

Only a doctor whose professionalism, expertise, and great patient relationships will yield such really, good karma! (Click video for full screen or CLICK HERE for larger video view.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.

Medical Marijuana in The News

ATTENTION: What The DEA Just Did To CBD & How This Affects MMJ

Being an informed patient puts you in charge of your health and healing. We encourage you to stay up-to-date with the rapidly changing policies concerning Medical Marijuana (from farming to distribution), especially with the new administration and its choices for its officers, in particular, pay attention to Jeff Sessions for Attorney General. See:

The DEA’s Domestic Cannabis Eradication / Suppression Program – “…The DEA is aggressively striving to halt the spread of cannabis cultivation in the United States. To accomplish this, the DEA initiated the Domestic Cannabis Eradication/Suppression Program (DCE/SP), which is the only nationwide law enforcement program that exclusively targets Drug Trafficking Organizations (DTO) involved in cannabis cultivation…”

It is important to stay up to date with Medical Marijuana news and contact your legislators(and get on their mailing lists) to:

Some Good News

Science Once Again Claims Marijuana is Medicine in Landmark National Academy of Sciences Report– “January 12, 2017 – By Amanda Reiman “Today the National Academy of Sciences released a comprehensive review of research on marijuanaand concluded that marijuana does indeed have medical value. The review concluded: “One of the therapeutic uses of cannabis and cannabinoids is to treat chronic pain in adults. The committee found evidence to support that patients who were treated with cannabis or cannabinoids were more likely to experience a significant reduction in pain symptoms. For adults with multiple sclerosis-related muscle spasms, there was substantial evidence that short-term use of certain “oral cannabinoids” – man-made, cannabinoid-based medications that are orally ingested – improved their reported symptoms. Furthermore, in adults with chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, there was conclusive evidence that certain oral cannabinoids were effective in preventing and treating those ailments…” Read More…

MMJ and The Arts

Grammy® Award-winning singer-songwriter Etheridge joins the cast of “ganjaprenuers” who appear in “Mary Janes: The Women of Weed”, a groundbreaking documentary about women in the weed business.

In October 2004, Etheridge was diagnosed with breast cancer, a battle she ultimately won with the help of medical cannabis. In 2016 she launched Etheridge Farms, her own cannabis line of products, which focuses on health, wellness and a return to plant medicine.

MARY JANES: THE WOMEN OF WEED follows female “ganjapreneurs” as they navigate the highs and lows of the legal cannabis industry in the United States. Their combined experience with the medical, legal, technical, scientific and business aspects of cannabis paints a multidimensional portrait of what it really takes to be “The Women of Weed”.

Office Policy Updates

Current Office Special

Refer A Friend and Receive a $75 Follow-Up Visit

Now’s your chance to receive a $25 credit for each person you refer who becomes an active patient! Share your success with people who may benefit from Medical Marijuana treatment with Doc Tommy’s expertise and comforting care and receive “karma credits!” See Office Policies for more info.

Join our mailing list to be kept up to date.

Disclaimer: Please note that Doc Tommy News is presented as a resource for health tips, current events, and other interests to give patients an opportunity to expand awareness of developments concerning Medical Marijuana in the United States and abroad. The views and opinions expressed in Doc Tommy News are those of the individual authors/parties and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Office of Dr. Thomas G. O’Brien, II.

Be sure to check out our MMJ In The News section for importantinfo concerning your legal rights and access to Medical Marijuana in New York State.

And Check out our Current Office Special!

Doc Tommy’s Charm Lands a Video Showcase!

Here’s yet another reason to know that Doc Tommy is the right doctor!Weedmaps.com (“the most reliable online resource to find cannabis storefronts, doctors and deals”) approached Doc Tommy to be the subject of this amazing video!

Only a doctor whose professionalism, expertise, and great patient relationships will yield such really, good karma! (Click video for full screen or CLICK HERE for larger video view.) NOTE: You may wish to LOWER the video’s volume before playing.

Doc Tommy’s “MMJ Q&A” Show

Have you submitted your questions yet? Doc Tommy is preparing to launch a series of video segments where he specifically addresses your questions! Now’s your chance to be a part of this unique venture that will make Medical Marijuana more user-friendly for patients and the public!

Before sending in your questions, take a moment to see if we’ve already answered them on our FAQ page. After reviewing the detailed information we’ve already provided, you can ask what may not have been addressed by filling out the Q&A Form HERE. YOUR INFORMATION WILL BE KEPT CONFIDENTIAL.

Paper Tissue & Toilet Paper Safety & Health

Tis the season for the sniffles and aren’t we lucky to have disposable tissues and toilet paper? However, there are many concerns regarding the safety of these products.

The Low-Down

Who knew? Some tissues and toilet paper actually contain allergens that can irritate skin! On top of that, pulp and paper manufacturing is one of the highest polluting industries in North America and the third greatest emitter of CO2! The processing of and additives in many paper tissue products have proven to be toxic! Here’s what you should know:

Health & Ecological Considerations

One would think that recycled tissue paper would be a viable option. However, too many recycled (and not recycled) tissue products contain BPAs and BPSs (widely used in the printing process; known to be an endocrine disruptor and can cause increased, metabolic disorders) and various oils (which are most likely genetically modified, and the dangers of GMOs are increasingly, being discovered every day!). Plus, white tissue and toilet paper have been bleached with chlorine, which is not only harmful to the environment, but has been known to be extremely carcinogenic, linked to birth defects, hormonal imbalances, reduced fertility, and immune system imbalances. (SeeWhat Is Bleach? And Why Is It Dangerous? for bleach alternatives and information on bleach processing.)

So, what to do?

1. READ Labels and know what the terms mean.

a. Brown or beige paper, BPA-free, CF (Totally Chlorine-Free), PCF (Processed Chlorine-Free) paper products are bleached with oxygen, ozone, or hydrogen, have not been recycled and have not, therefore, ever been exposed to chlorinated bleach.

c. This article describes label definitions that are commonly found in paper products and what they actually mean.

2. While many naturalists advocate cloth toilet paper and cloth handkerchiefs, those of us who live in big cities and around lots of people may not be comfortable with the sanitary considerations of this option. Once one has become spoiled by the softness of popular paper products, even the safest, recycled options can be abrasive. While some of these resources are a little dated, here’s what we suggest:

a. Choose eco-friendly facial tissue. Major considerations are products not made from virgin old-growth trees, use a high percentage of post-consumer recycled content (to cut down on old growth forest destruction), and are not produced with chlorine or other, toxic chemicals (as mentioned above). See this list of “brands to choose for environmental progress.”

b. Download this guide from the Natural Resources Defense Council (nrdc.org) to find products that use environmentally safe processing practices and see if your favorite brands are on the list.

c. Check with the Chlorine Free Products Association, which sets standards for chlorine-free papers and certifies products and mills in a variety of factors including postconsumer fiber content, virgin pulp that did not come from old-growth forests, production in mills without environmental violations, and more.

A good, stress management option is to find groups of people who share your interests to have fun with! Meetup.com lets you search for and find just about anything you can think of and start your own group to attract like-minds!

Medical Marijuana in The News

New York: Chart: New York medical marijuana patient counts rising, but still have long way to go. Many factors have contributed to New York’s relatively low patient count, including a limited qualifying condition list, a lack of patient access to doctors that can recommend MMJ, a narrow and pricey selection of cannabis products, and a finite number of dispensaries. Read full article…

It is important to stay up to date with Medical Marijuana news and contact your legislators(and get on their mailing lists) to:

Current Office Special

Refer A Friend and Receive a $75 Follow-Up Visit

Now’s your chance to receive a $25 credit for each person you refer who becomes an active patient! Share your success with people who may benefit from Medical Marijuana treatment with Doc Tommy’s expertise and comforting care and receive “karma credits!” See Office Policies for more info.

Join our mailing list to be kept up to date.

Disclaimer: Please note that Doc Tommy News is presented as a resource for health tips, current events, and other interests to give patients an opportunity to expand awareness of developments concerning Medical Marijuana in the United States and abroad. The views and opinions expressed in Doc Tommy News are those of the individual authors/parties and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Office of Dr. Thomas G. O’Brien, II.

Be sure to check out our MMJ In The News section for importantinfo concerning your legal rights and access to Medical Marijuana in New York State.

And Check out our Autumn Office Special!

Doc Tommy’s “MMJ Q&A” Show

Beginning in November, Doc Tommy will offer a series of video segments where he specifically addresses your questions! Be a part of this unique venture that will make Medical Marijuana more user-friendly for patients and the public!

Before sending in your questions, take a moment to see if we’ve already answered them on our FAQ page. After reviewing the detailed information we’ve already provided, you can ask what may not have been addressed by filling out the Q&A Form HERE. YOUR INFORMATION WILL BE KEPT CONFIDENTIAL.

Hand Sanitizer and Antibacterial Soap Considerations

As cold and flu season approaches, you may want to reconsider reaching for the hand sanitizer in your briefcase or bag. Some hand sanitizers contain alcohol compounds ethanol (or ethyl alcohol), isopropyl alcohol and benzalkonium chloride. High concentration exposure to these substances can cause irritation to eyes and skin and may even harm fetuses.

Many hand sanitizers contain an antibiotic compound called triclosan (or triclocarban) which can also be found in antibacterial body washes and hand soaps, toothpaste, mouthwash, cosmetics, children’s toys, clothing, kitchenware and furniture to prevent bacterial contamination.

“The record does not currently contain sufficient data to show that there is any additional benefit from the use of consumer antiseptic hand or body washes compared to non-antibacterial soap and water.”

The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) have collaborated on studying the effects of triclosan – the EPA regulates triclosan as a pesticide and the FDA focuses on its long-term use by consumers. Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to triclosan has altered how certain hormones work in animals, increased resistance to antibiotics, and weakened immune systems.

Because the manufacturers haven’t proven that these ingredients are safe for daily use over a long period of time, the FDA is currently “issuing a final rule under which OTC (over the counter) consumer antiseptic wash products (including liquid, foam, gel hand soaps, bar soaps, and body washes) containing the majority of the antibacterial active ingredients—including triclosan and triclocarban—will no longer be able to be marketed.” For more information: U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Wash Your Hands with Plain Soap and Water

The FDA supports the CDC’s (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) recommendation to Wet, Lather, Scrub, Rinse, and Dry. The good-ol’-fashioned way is still one of the best to prevent spreading germs and avoid getting sick. “Learn more about when and how to wash your hands, the importance of using soap and water, and what you can do if soap and clean, running water are not available. Whether you are at home, at work, traveling, or already sick, find out how good hand hygiene can protect you, your family, and others” on the CDC’s website.

Medical Marijuana in The News

New York:New York Legislative Session Ends With No Improvements To Flawed Medical Program. “Although many bills that would have improved New York’s medical marijuana program were introduced by Assemblyman Richard Gottfried and Senators Gustavo Rivera and Diane Savino in 2016, none of them passed. Most of them died in the Health Committee of the state Senate. Please click here to find out who your state legislators are, and contact them to urge them to improve the medical marijuana program next session.

“Patients are struggling to find doctors that will recommend medical marijuana, because less than 1% of the doctors in New York have taken the costly 4.5 hour course on medical cannabis that is required in order to register with the program. In addition, New York law only permits 20 dispensaries, the second lowest number of dispensaries per capita of any medical state. This helps explain why, in a recent survey of patients, 77% reported that they are unable to afford the medicine they need. Finally, the New York program leaves behind the vast majority of patients who could benefit from medical marijuana, including those with chronic pain or PTSD. The health commissioner recently refused to add PTSD to the list of qualifying conditions despite compelling evidence that medical cannabis can help and has far fewer side effects than the cocktail of drugs usually prescribed.” — source: MPP.org

Washington, D.C., August 11, 2016: DEA Refuses to Reschedule Marijuana. “Today, the DEA announced that it was not rescheduling marijuana. Earlier this year it was reported that the DEA was considering rescheduling marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule II, a move that would have shown the federal government believes marijuana has an “accepted medical use.” For decades, the DEA has made it impossible for scientists to put marijuana through clinical trials to demonstrate it meets FDA standards for medical safety and efficacy. The only marijuana that researchers have been able to obtain over the years has been a low-quality supply from the one facility that the DEA has given a license to produce it – and that facility is operated by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)…– which often squarely conflict[s] with NIDA’s mission to study the harms of drug consumption.

“The Obama administration also announced, however, that it’s finally ending the DEA’s absurd monopoly on marijuana research, which is an important victory for our movement. For decades, the DEA has made it impossible for scientists to put marijuana through the clinical trials needed to meet FDA standards for medical safety and efficacy.” READ MORE on the Drug Policy Alliance website.

Montana:Majority of Montana Medical Marijuana Patients to Lose Access. “On September 1, most medical marijuana patients in Montana are expected lose legal access. After years of court challenges which delayed implementation, most of the state’s 2011 law will be in effect, severely limiting the number of people available to provide medical marijuana to patients.” — source: MPP.org

MMJ in the Arts & Education

Independent Film: MARY JANES: THE WOMEN OF WEED – “DVA Productions proudly presents Mary Janes: The Women of Weed, a groundbreaking, feature-length documentary film that follows female “ganjapreneurs” as they navigate the budding US marijuana industry. Their experience with the medical, legal, technical, scientific and business aspects of cannabis paint a multidimensional portrait of the emerging and influential group of female pot entrepreneurs (see the impressive cast). The film is directed and produced by multi-award-winning filmmaker Windy Borman (The Eyes of Thailand and The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia).” – maryjanesfilm.com

Free Meditation Series with Oprah & Deepak Chopra

It’s a well-known fact that meditation improves your mental and physical experience, and so many people benefit from meditation spiritually and beyond. Beginning October 31, take advantage of the FREE 21-Day Meditation Experience: Creating Peace from the Inside Out! It’s easy to register and participate online or with the app! And it’s FREE! Not sure? Check out these free resources to give you greater insight on what is offered.

Autumn Office Special

Refer A Friend and Receive a $75 Follow-Up Visit

Now’s your chance to receive a $25 credit for each person you refer who becomes an active patient! Share your success with people who may benefit from Medical Marijuana treatment with Doc Tommy’s expertise and comforting care and receive “karma credits!” See Office Policies for more info.

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Disclaimer: Please note that Doc Tommy News is presented as a resource for health tips, current events, and other interests to give patients an opportunity to expand awareness of developments concerning Medical Marijuana in the United States and abroad. The views and opinions expressed in Doc Tommy News are those of the individual authors/parties and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Office of Dr. Thomas G. O’Brien, II.

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Testimonials

Amazingly informative!! Dr. Tommy O (O’Brien) explained everything in excellent detail and in a way my son and I could fully comprehend his medical problem and the appropriate treatment. This way we understand why we are using the prescribed medication and how to use it. Thank you so much!! – Enid G., Queens

Hey Doc, just want to sincerely thank you. For the first time in 7 years I wasn’t doped up but I was pain free. It’s a feeling that I couldn’t t even begin to describe. You have changed my life. All those years of opiates and horrible medicines controlling me, now I am in charge Read More…

Dr. Tom O’Brien, You are a miracle worker! Thank you for helping us find a solution for my mother-in-law’s nightly aggression and agitation associated with dementia… The more I learn about cannabis, the more you hear overwhelming stories, like this one, with cures over illnesses such as cancers and many neurological issues and pain management! Again, I can’t thank you enough for your guidance! Go Dr. Tommy O!! ~ Diane Kallimanis Halka and the whole Halka Family Read More…

This in my opinion: [Doc Tommy] is one of the best doctors in NYC. I suffer from nerve damage and I qualify for legal cannabis use in NY. I am no longer taking opiates. Oxy sucks; it ruined my life. Thank you, Doctor O’Brien for your help and concern. He has the real doctor’s bed Read More…

…I ONLY have great things to say! I found only 5-star reviews about Dr. O’Brien on websites… ALL of the reviews were right! My experience has been great!!! You get what you pay for! The time and attention that Dr. O’Brien gave me was well worth his fees and I like his discount and referral programs! Read More…

My meeting with Dr. O’Brien was excellent. His care and compassion for my chronic condition was clearly evident (emotionally, physically and neurologically). He has a warm, friendly, professional bed-side manner and carries himself with pride and humility. He was thorough in his examination, he educated me about my body and gave me good recommendations. I Read More…

Thank you, Dr. O’Brien! I was scared to go to another doctor’s appointment but Dr. Tommy said he treats his patients like family…and he was right! He was incredibly kind and most impressive to me, he really knew his stuff. Finding a doctor willing to talk to you for an hour (in NYC!), and discuss Read More…